allergic reactions

11:11 am

Fri February 8, 2013

Proposal would make adrenaline shots more readily available

During a severe allergic reaction, this common brand of epinephrine injector could save a life

EpiPen

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The idea of putting a needle of adrenaline into someone might seem intimidating – but that’s how you save their life if they’re in allergic shock. The legislature is considering empowering school staff to give injections more widely.

She could have been saved with a shot of epinephrine, which is another name for adrenaline. But, because the epinephrine injectors (sometimes called EpiPens, a common brand) are a prescription medication, they can only be given to a child whose name is on the syringe. The girl didn't have a prescription.

Allergy doctors and families are pushing to amend Washington law, as several other states have done, and allow school staff to give the shots to anyone who is having a severe allergic reaction.

Teachers and staff, through their labor unions, are worried they’re being asked to make a medical diagnosis in a moment of crisis. so they testified against the bill in a Senate committee.